Word for the Week

Week beginning: 10th January, 2016

By Mhairi Hamilton | Ashford

"Now who is there to harm you if you are zealous for what is good? But even if you should suffer for righteousness' sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, but in your hearts honour Christ the Lord as holy…"

1 Peter 3:13-15a (ESV)

Your phone buzzes: new message, from an unknown number – "Stop pursuing your current case, or else your life is in danger." What would you do?

For our CLEAR partners, death threats, bribery and witchcraft are just some of the challenges they encounter as they seek to speak up for the voiceless and vulnerable. Thankfully, most of us will not have to deal with such a stark threat when representing our clients but we do face challenges. As Christians we should pursue what is good for our clients, our colleagues and for the situation, but we should also expect to encounter opposition.

How should we respond to such opposition? Peter is clear: we should not be fearful but continue to put God first. We are to honour Christ as holy – He is perfect and above all that we face. This is true whether facing a death threat, an underhand opponent or back office gossip.

As one CLEAR staff member shared, death threats are no longer a concern for him because God is bigger and He holds our lives in His hands: our job is to serve Him fervently, pursuing what is good.

Prayer Points

1. Give thanks for our CLEAR partners as they work tirelessly to pursue justice and share the gospel despite opposition. (Click here for more information about our CLEAR partners and how they serve God through their access to justice ministries across East Africa)

2. Please pray that we would have a zeal for doing good and glorifying God, even when facing opposition.

To support the work of our CLEAR partners through our Christmas Appeal, please click here.